Pride 2017 Cabernet Franc, Napa/Sonoma

The Summit Ranch where Pride Mountain Vineyards are located dates back to the 1880's and is one of Napa Valley's oldest grape growing properties. Owners Jim and Carolyn Pride launched their first vintage in 1991 and it's been a cult favorite ever since. The vineyard blocks up Napa's Spring Mountain stretch over into Sonoma so the wine carries both names on the label.

Cabernet Franc grapes were harvested on October 1st of 2017, after which it was cold-soaked in the tank for four days and then fermented on the skins for a total of 18 days. The final blend also contains an addition of 15% cabernet sauvignon from the Quartz Hill and Rim Rock blocks. In a warm vintage like 2017, Cabernet Franc has the potential to truly shine. Managing flavor development in this finicky grape variety is all about sunlight and warmth without the excessive exposure that can cause sunburn. In 2017, they were granted that in spades and the resulting wine confirms it.

 
Wine Advocate scored this 93 points saying "The 2017 Cabernet Franc is made of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. It comes 59% from Napa county and 41%Sonoma county. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes proudly prancing out of the glass with happy Morello cherries, baked raspberries, boysenberries and warm plums notes plus suggestions of pencil lead, red roses, black tea and bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, it reveals wonderfully youthful, crunchy red and black fruits with a firm backbone of finely grained tannins and seamless freshness, finishing long and perfumed. 1,485 cases produced."